Labeling Clips in Final Cut Pro

Learn to use the labeling function in Final Cut Pro so you can quickly identify a clip's type.

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Possible Confusion

If you are working on a very large editing project in Final Cut Pro it is important to label each clip and sub-clip not only with proper titles but also with its purpose and quality. Without proper labeling the stacks of unused media can become overwhelming and the clutter can make finishing your digital video next to impossible. Final Cut Pro includes a feature that allows you to actually label each clip by quality.

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Labeling a Clip

To label a clip you first select the clip you want and then go to Modify in the task bar. Go down to Label, and when you highlight this option you will be given a number of possible labels. The labels you have available are Good Take, Best Take, Alternative Shots, Interviews, and B-Roll. Once you select the type of label you would like this then appears in the Label spot on the information that appears in the Browser when you select your clip.

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Quick Keys

Just as with most functions in Final Cut Pro, this one has quick key options as well. Once you select a clip you can then use the appropriate quick key to apply the desired label. If you hold down the Option and Apple keys along with the number 2 you will select Good Take. Best Take is the Option, Apple, and 3, while Alternative Shots is Option, Apple, and 4. Interviews are Option, Apple, and 5, and B-Roll is Option, Apple, and 6.

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Is it Useful

This is quite useful when looking over footage you have just acquired or captured, and trying to decide which ones are the best. In complicated documentary editing this is extremely important, as you will be able to properly label interviews and B-rolls if things get disorganized. This is an excellent shorthand that can only make your project more organized and easier to work with.

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Proper Use

This is not an absolute labeling system and it is still important to use detailed titles and descriptors on each clip, as well as keeping them in well identified bins. If you have accidentally labeled a clip incorrectly you simply go back to the Label menu and select None. The quick key for this is Option, Apple, and 1. Remember, make sure everything is where you want it to be because that can help reduce the chance of losing media or destroying planned sequences.